VEHICLE REVIEW: The Citroen C5 X is worthy of the label “flagship”.

The car offers a combination of comfort, practicality and style that stands out above many of its rivals.

Where the C5 X fits in when it comes to “type of car” is open to interpretation, as its body style is very unconventional.

To some it may look like a large hatchback, to others it is more of a station wagon, while the body is slightly raised with the lower part of the cladding, like a crossover. Despite its non-conformist body style, it looks more confident than confused. It’s technically a D segment car, in case you were wondering.

The stylish exterior includes some design cues, including some eye-catching creases on the body and two rear spoilers.

A new chevron with flowing 3D LED daytime running lights helps to emphasize the hood’s folding design at the front.

Experience shows that the prettier cars aren’t always the most practical, but that’s not the case with the C5 X.

The combination of comfortable driving and spacious interior makes the car very easy to use.

The relaxing ride is enhanced by Citroen’s signature Advanced Comfort Suspension, which is standard on all C5 X models, offering a magic carpet-like driving experience.

Plug-in Hybrid versions go even further and feature “Active” suspension technology, which uses onboard sensors to automatically optimize suspension settings based on road conditions.

The steering is well-judged, striking a balance between ease of use and the “feel” element.

There was a fair amount of body roll to be aware of on the B-road when cornering, but not as much as you’d expect from a car of this size.

My test car is powered by a 129bhp 1.2-litre petrol engine, with a more powerful 178bhp version also available.

With a 0-62mph time of 10.4 seconds, it’s no pulse-pounder, but it’s got enough grunt for most everyday situations, helped by the turbo.

Fuel economy is a wallet-friendly 41.4 to 48.6mpg, while emissions are rated at 137g/km.

Unlike some big German sedans, the C5 X is a car that’s unashamedly comfortable, so it’s best to adopt a more relaxed and progressive driving style to get the best out of the drivetrain and chassis.

In terms of interior quality, the cabin has a very nice feel to it, with several premium materials, oceans of space and very comfortable seats.

During the two-hour drive on the highway, I felt extremely relaxed and refreshed, the car was very calm and the cabin was quiet.

The Citroen Advanced Comfort seats come with 15mm of extra memory foam padding and provide greater support on longer journeys.

There are cars that cost twice as much but struggle to achieve the same level of refinement.

The C5 X is equipped with Citroen’s most advanced advanced display. The system projects all essential driving information in color directly onto the windshield, 4.5 meters ahead in the driver’s line of sight, allowing the driver to keep an eye on the road at all times.

Drivers can select key information such as navigation, driver assistance systems and speed information directly on the windscreen in front of them.

The car also debuts Citroen’s improved infotainment system, which features an ultra-wide 12-inch HD touchscreen with ambient lighting. It’s an impressive piece of kit that feels ultra-modern.

In conclusion, there is no doubt that the C5 X deserves to be called Citroen’s flagship model.

The Lowdown

Citroen C5 X Shine Plus PureTech
COST: £32,160 on the road
CHARACTERISTICS: Top speed of 130mph and 0-62mph in 10.4 seconds
ECONOMY: 41.4 to 48.6mpg and 137g/km emissions
ENGINE: 1199cc inline 3-cylinder gasoline turbo
Maximum power: 129 horsepower
Transmission type: 8-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive